How to Accessorize Your Entire Destination Wedding Weekend

You chose a destination wedding, because you know it isn’t just about the ceremony! In fact, it’s a multi-day experience, with countless opportunities to show off your personal style. From welcome dinners and poolside excursions to the after-party and farewell brunch, every event is a chance to celebrate and accessorize accordingly.

The key? Packing a few versatile, standout pieces that work across different outfits, moods, and venues, without weighing down your luggage. Here’s how to accessorize each major moment of your destination wedding weekend with elegance, ease, and intention.

Welcome Dinner: Keep It Elegant (But Low-Maintenance)

Your welcome dinner sets the tone for the entire destination wedding weekend. Most couples opt for a relaxed yet refined event—think candlelit cocktails, linen shirts, flowy dresses, and glowing skin from a day in the sun.

How to accessorize:

Stick to lightweight jewelry that catches the light without feeling too formal. A pair of gold huggie hoops or a single layered necklace is enough to elevate your look, and consider birthstone jewelry for a personal touch. If your event leans tropical or beachy, natural textures like raffia or shell details can bring in a bit of personality.

Pro tip: Skip the stilettos. A nude block heel or dressy sandal will work better for outdoor venues while still feeling occasion-worthy.

Poolside Welcome or Excursion Outing: Effortless and Fun

Many destination wedding weekends include a group activity, like a catamaran cruise, pool party, or beach picnic. These events call for effortless style with pieces that can handle sun, sea, and movement.

How to accessorize:

Think practical but polished. Waterproof or quick-dry bangles, woven beach totes, oversized sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat are musts. For jewelry, consider minimal studs or a delicate chain that won’t tangle or tarnish. Stackable rings in lightweight materials can add a playful edge without the worry of losing something precious overboard.

Style inspiration: A breezy cover-up paired with a bold cuff or colorful enamel earrings makes for excellent photo ops without trying too hard. Adding a few fun pieces to your packing list will leave you ready for anything! 

Wedding Ceremony: Go Timeless with a Personal Touch

This is your big moment, and your accessories should reflect it. Destination ceremonies are often more relaxed than traditional weddings, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice elegance. In fact, it’s the perfect excuse to go all-in on timeless details, like wedding shoes and jewelry.

Pearls are a beautiful choice for destination brides—especially those marrying in June. As the June birthstone, pearls represent purity, wisdom, and new beginnings, making them a meaningful and stylish symbol of commitment.

How to accessorize:

Whether you’re going minimalist or full glam, pearls can be styled to match your look. Opt for freshwater pearls for a more organic, boho vibe, or Akoya pearls if your dress calls for something classic and refined. A single strand necklace or drop earrings can elevate even the simplest gown without competing with your dress.

You can also coordinate pearl jewelry with your gown’s neckline—opt for a choker or short strand if you’re wearing a strapless or sweetheart neckline, or long drop earrings if your dress has intricate shoulder detailing. Brides wearing hair up might consider a pearl comb or clip to bring the look full circle.

Reception: Let the Sparkle In

Once the vows are exchanged, it’s time to party, and to take your accessories up a notch! Whether you’re staying in your wedding dress or switching to a second look, now’s the moment to add a little drama.

How to accessorize:

Think shimmer! Try metallic statement earrings, a beaded clutch, or a bold hair accessory, and make sure to match your accessories to the tone of your wedding reception. Tropical florals? Add a floral earring. Modern glam? Try crystal accents. Just make sure whatever you choose won’t catch on your dress or get in the way on the dance floor!

Quick tip: If you’re planning outfit photos on the beach or under twinkle lights, reflective pieces, like satin shoes or mother-of-pearl accents, will look incredible in pictures.

After-Party: Go Bold and Playful

The after-party is where tradition ends and the fun begins. Whether you’re heading to a rooftop bar, poolside lounge, or beach bonfire, this is your chance to let loose and wear something unexpected.

How to accessorize:

Swap classic elegance for playful energy. Try layered chains, chunky cocktail rings, or a personalized necklace featuring your new last name. If you’re wearing a short dress or jumpsuit, a bold cuff or statement earring adds just the right amount of flair.

You can even carry a mini bag just big enough for lipstick and vows. After all, you’re only doing this once!

Farewell Brunch: Soft and Sentimental

The farewell brunch is a gentle landing after the high of the wedding day, and a chance to hug your guests, share stories, and reflect. You’re also able to repurpose your favorite pieces from the weekend.

This is also a lovely time to gift small accessories to family members or your bridal party—like matching earrings or a charm bracelet—as a thank-you for celebrating by your side. It’s a sentimental gesture they’ll appreciate long after the trip ends.

How to accessorize:

Keep it light and sweet. If you wore pearls during the ceremony, style them again with a flowy dress or breezy separates for an effortless look. A pair of pearl stud earrings or a slim bracelet adds a little polish without trying too hard.

Final Thoughts

Your destination wedding weekend is filled with unforgettable moments—and your accessories can help you feel like the best version of yourself through every one of them. Whether you’re dancing barefoot at your after-party or walking down the aisle with heirloom pearls, thoughtful styling ties your whole story together.

For those saying “I do” in June, don’t overlook the symbolism of pearls as a way to make your bridal look even more personal. A few well-chosen pieces can carry deep meaning, spark joy, and stay with you long after the wedding ends.